An Najaf, Iraq

Capital City

The population of An Najaf is a hefty 724,700, but that doesn't translate to an easy life. This holy city is a religious pilgrimage hotspot, drawing millions each year to visit the tomb of a revered Shia figure. However, the bureaucratic headaches are persistent - the Ottoman era saw the population plummet from 3,000 homes to just 30 due to water shortages and instability. And the climate is no picnic, with scorching summers averaging 23.6°C. An Najaf may hold deep spiritual significance, but it's a challenging place to call home.